This section contains information about National Curriculum tests, phonics screening checks and Key Stages 1 and 2 planning charts.
Pedagogy and practice
Phonics screening check for Year 1 pupils
This is an urgent priority for the Department. Reading can change lives and we are committed to improving the teaching of reading in primary school.
General article 17 May 2013
Phonics products and the self-assessment process
Introduction to choosing an effective phonics teaching programme covering core criteria and the self-assessment process.
Multi-page article 17 May 2013
About the P scales
Information for teachers about the use of performance scales (P scales) and how they should be used for reporting attainment for pupils with special educational needs who are working below level 1 of the National Curriculum.
General article 25 April 2013
Phonics screening check FAQs
Questions and answers about the phonics screening check, including a leaflet to download for parents.
FAQ 09 April 2013
The phonics screening check – responding to the results
Information for Reception and Key stage 1 teachers about how they might respond to the results of the Year 1 phonics screening check.
General article 05 February 2013
Phonic teaching resources and funding for schools FAQs
Answers to questions about systematic synthetic phonics, including teaching, resources and matched funding.
FAQ 29 January 2013
Match-funding for phonics products and training extended
Latest information about match-funding, and our approved supplier catalogue of systematic synthetic phonics products and training.
General article 29 January 2013
Dux award scheme FAQs
Answers to some general questions about the Dux award scheme.
FAQ 07 December 2012
The Department's research evidence on writing report
A report analysing research evidence on writing, including domestic and international sources in pupils’ achievement, effective teaching and the gender gap.
General article 15 November 2012
National Curriculum tests for international schools
Information for international schools about ordering National Curriculum tests for 2013.
Multi-page article 13 November 2012
